Wines Hunter Valley Tyrrell's - Vat 7 Shiraz - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Tyrrell’s Vat 7 Shiraz 2023 from the celebrated Hunter Valley is a fine showcase of Australian Shiraz tradition. Made exclusively from Shiraz grapes, this dry red wine is crafted with careful attention to the classic Vat series philosophy, which highlights purity and expressiveness of fruit. The 2023 vintage benefited from a mild, relatively cool growing season that permitted slow, even ripening, allowing the grapes to develop an aromatic profile and finely textured tannins. The wine is vinified using a combination of stainless steel and seasoned oak maturation, ensuring vibrant red and black fruit character while integrating subtle spice, smoke and earthy undertones that are trademarks of both the terroir and Tyrrell’s winemaking style.

The Hunter Valley, located in New South Wales, is one of Australia’s oldest and most beloved wine regions. While its reputation is global for Semillon, Shiraz has long been its red grape star. The river valley’s soils, primarily light sandy loams over clay, provide excellent drainage and heat retention, while the temperate climate—marked by warm days and cool nights—allows for balanced acidity and measured sugar accumulation in the grapes. Originally established by British colonists in the early 19th century, the Hunter Valley has a storied legacy of producing age-worthy Shiraz distinguished by elegance and medium body rather than overt concentration.

Pairing Vat 7 Shiraz 2023 with food invites many delicious possibilities. Its supple tannins and fresh acidity make it an ideal companion to grilled lamb cutlets with rosemary, beef rump steak, or duck breast with spiced plum sauce. Classic Australian barbecue dishes, such as butterflied leg of lamb or even kangaroo fillet, are also excellent matches. For a regional touch, consider serving it with Hunter-style beef pie or sharp local cheeses, which harmonise with the wine’s savoury nuances.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Shiraz at 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will help open the wine’s aromatics and soften its youthful structure, revealing layers of red cherry, blackberry, pepper, and a touch of smoky cedar. This wine is approachable now but will reward short-term cellaring if you prefer a more harmonious and rounded profile.